For the Cashier Who Made Me Absolutely Without Words – I Salute You
The scene was a day of rest, and I felt sufficiently irritable, topping off my mum’s car. The location was one of those petrol stations that doubles as a supermarket, so you run the risk of ending up in line customers carrying goods of somewhat expensive items. This is a dreadful thing to happen when your only desire is to pay for some fuel. Terrible.
My position was fourth in the queue. There was only employee working, a female attendant. A peculiar quality in her demeanor. After the ditherer at the first position had completed payment for his Viakal, his sausage roll, and some breakfast items, I was certain that I heard the cashier wish him an excellent day. Strange. Could be I misunderstood, or maybe she did say it and used a mocking tone. I wondered if perhaps she was a comrade in my fight against faff, reflecting my irritation for those who delay people just getting gas like me.
Advancing next, to third in the queue. The next shopper of our group finished pumping gas with notable efficiency. Again, the phrase came: “Have a wonderful day.” To be precise, it was “may your day be absolutely splendid”. An American? Here in Stourbridge? Her tone suggested it, and hardly anyone here wishes anyone those exact words, or simply a good day. Very rare. It's uncommon to find many Americans frequenting this area, and definitely not employed at gas stations or anywhere else.
Second in line at last. Behind a poor older woman embroiled in a protracted effort with her carryall, her groceries, her purse and her rewards card. This took an eternity. When she was done, she too received the wish to have a fantastic day. Yes, American for sure. Confirming it was possible by saying something hilarious to her, to check for that thing their typical stare, stoically, and state very earnestly: “You are very amusing.” However, nothing occurred of a funny comment to say.
I just had to settle for the absolute sincerity – or an impersonation of it, essentially the same as no different – as she gazed directly into my eyes, to my very core, and wished me a wonderful day. I felt better for it. Beneficial indeed.
